What is TFTP (Trivial File Transfer Protocol)?

Trivial File Transfer Protocol is a technology for transferring files between network devices and is a simplified version of the more powerful File Transfer Protocol. TFTP was developed in the 1970s for computers that lacked enough memory or disk space to provide full FTP support. Today, TFTP is found on consumer broadband routers and commercial network routers.

Home network administrators use TFTP to upgrade router firmware, while professional administrators use TFTP to distribute software across corporate networks.

How TFTP . Works

Like FTP, TFTP uses client and server software to create a connection between two devices. From the TFTP client, individual files can be uploaded or downloaded from the server. The server hosts the files and the client requests or sends the file.

TFTP can also be used to remotely start computers and back up network or router configuration files. TFTP relies on UDP for data transport.

Software TFTP client and server

The command-line TFTP client is included with current versions of Microsoft Windows, Linux, and macOS. TFTP clients with graphical interfaces are also available as free software, such as TFTPD32, which includes a TFTP server. Windows TFTP Utility is another example of a GUI client and server for TFTP, but there are other free FTP clients as well.

Microsoft Windows does not come with a TFTP server, but several free Windows TFTP servers are available for download. Linux and macOS systems use the tftpd TFTP server, although it can be disabled by default.

Network experts recommend configuring the TFTP server carefully to avoid potential security problems.

How to use TFTP client in Windows

TFTP client in Windows is not enabled by default. Turn it on via the Control Panel applet Programs and Features.

1. Open Control Panel: Go to Windows Search and find Control Panel.

2. In Control Panel, choose Programs.

3. Select Turn Windows features on or off.

Or, you can execute the command optionalfeatures in Command Prompt or dialog box Run.

4. In the dialog box Windows Features, choose TFTP Client.

Note: You may need to reboot for the changes to take effect.

5. Access TFTP through Command Prompt with the tftp command. Use the help command or see the tftp command line reference page on the Microsoft website at:

https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/previous-versions/windows/it-pro/windows-server-2012-R2-and-2012/ff698993%28v=ws.11%29